I've been having some neurological problems: hyperreflexia, clonus, cramps (hands, feet, throat, under tongue, and the worst - behind scrotum/rectum while stopping urination). Also get popcorn sensation going off in legs from time to time, vibrations on inside of feet. I didn't go in complaining about any of these things, I kinda thought they were normal [read: denial] but complained about my major headaches: problems climbing stairs and the "pulsing" fasciculation feeliing going on in my abdomen... a urologist told me to jerk off more. ehhem.

I've had the whole work up: MRIs, spinal tap (no HIV found), no syph, no thyroid issues, no vitamin issues, no immunoglobulin problems. Also had a SSEP (interpretation: problem in the brainstem) and 2 EMGs (chronic reinnervation without active denervation, increased potentials in both legs and I think they found some fasciculations on the last one, done a couple days ago). I have a MRS scheduled and am in the middle of a 2nd opinion evaluation for Motor Neuron Disease which is the rulling out on the MRS. The specialist at the ALS clinic has told me though, that he doesn't think the problem is motor neuron disease but probably something connected to HIV or its treatment, specifically a demyelinating problem.

I guess my question is: wouldn't demyelination from HIV show up on one of the test, maybe the SSEP?

Also, I have read about HAD and some of the early symptoms... dificulty with stairs, hyperreflexia, clonus, ... Is HAD a possibility? The CSF found no detectable HIV so wouldn't that, plus the no lesions on an MRI, kinda rule that out?

Just curious is HIV is really still a posibility here. I should mention, I've also gone to see a psychiatrist who didn't find I had depression or anxiety (other than a healthy amount that anyone should probably have when going through this process).

Thanks for your answer, I really appreciate it and the work you guys do.

Response from Dr. Wohl

Thanks for your post. Unfortunately, it sounds like despite a very through work up, the cause of your symptoms remains elusive. I am afraid I can not add much.

For the reasons you state, I think it unlikely that this is HIV dementia. For one thing, your viral load being undetectable on HIV meds makes this diagnosis low on the list. Plus, the absence of HIV in your spinal fluid suggests an alternative cause. Lastly, this seems an unusual presentation for HIV associated dementia.

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